ACT Mental Health, Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team (CATT) who provide a 24-hour, highly accessible and responsive acute mental health assessment and treatment service in the most appropriate setting. Phone 1800 629 354 or visit the Health Directorate website.

Wellways who provide support and information to people experiencing mental health issues, as well as their family, friends and carers. Phone 1300 111 400 or visit the Wellways website.

Ongoing Support

Your General Practitioner can help if you are experiencing moderate anxiety or depression. Your doctor can complete a mental health treatment plan and provide a referral for free sessions with a psychologist under the ACT Medicare Local's HealthinMind Program. Your GP can also assist with information about the risks to your physical health of potential asbestos exposure.

Next Step provides free and confidential support to help tackle day-to-day pressures. Next Step's mental health professionals have experience dealing with clients who have been affected by Mr Fluffy and will continue to support affected households. The program includes six free sessions with a Next Step coach over the phone or face-to-face. Phone 02 6287 8066 to make an appointment or visit the Next Step website to book an appointment online.

ACT Health, Community Health Centres provide access to a wide range of community health services from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Phone the Community Health Intake (CHI) line on 02 6207 9977 or visit the Health Directorate website for information on services available and the location of a health centre close to you.

Useful resources

Support for Children and Young People

There are a range of specialist support services for children and young people experiencing difficulties as a result of the impact of Mr Fluffy on their lives.

The Education Directorate has school counsellors to support families, particularly those with adolescent children. The Directorate can also assist families that have moved out-of-area and want to maintain existing school enrolments. Contact your local school to make an appointment with a counsellor. If you require assistance or clarification on enrolments contact 02 6205 5429 or submit an enquiry online via the Education Directorate Contact Form.

The Community Services Directorate, Child and Family Centres provide services for families with young children in the Gungahlin, Tuggeranong and West Belconnen communities. The Centres provide a range of targeted and tailored services, with a strong emphasis on providing outreach services in homes, schools and the community. Staff are available to speak with parents in person or by phone, Monday to Friday between 9:00am and 5:00pm. Visit the Community Services Directorate website for information on the Child and Family Centre nearest you and services available.

Useful resources

Support for Seniors

Support is available to help older Canberrans, particularly to assist with the process of moving to new living arrangements, including relocating to a retirement village or aged care home.

Council of the Ageing ACT (COTA) provide a wide range of information on issues that senior Canberrans face each day, including housing, finance, health, medical, and retirement. They can act as a referral service if required. Phone 02 6282 3777 or visit the COTA website